Solution Architect, Satellite Mesh Networks

Iridium is an award-winning and innovative satellite communications company with bragging rights to the only network that offers voice and data connectivity anywhere in the world. For over 20 years, Iridium's unique network and services have supported critical communications needs for individuals, businesses, and the evolving Internet of Things.

At Iridium, we understand the importance of staying connected and the limitations of traditional communications networks. People across the globe, including first responders, humanitarians, global militaries, scientific researchers, and lone workers, as well as ships, aircraft and remote operations all rely on Iridium to stay connected. We take our responsibility for providing these essential communications very seriously and pride ourselves on offering a reliable lifeline when needed. Likewise, Iridium is committed to providing an exciting and innovative workplace, where employees are challenged to think outside the box and collaborate on new, bold ideas and solutions. Our talented teams are passionate about their work and the impact our company makes around the world. Iridium fosters an empowering and inclusive culture that allows employees to genuinely be their best selves. We are looking for others who want to join this truly unique company that celebrates our employees and provides the opportunity to truly make a difference in the world.

Iridium is seeking a forward-thinking Solution Architect for satellite networks for a USG program, with deep expertise in designing and deploying resilient, scalable, and adaptive mesh networking architectures in support of advanced U.S. Government (USG) or commercial satellite programs. In this role, you'll architect next-generation, satellite-integrated low earth orbit mesh network solutions that enable high-reliability, low-latency communications across dynamic and contested environments. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders to design highly automated, software-driven mesh networks that can self-heal, adapt in real-time to traffic loads and topology changes, and scale for future mission demands.

This position requires an active/current Secret Security Clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI. (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active.)

Architect and implement mesh-based network solutions for satellite ground systems and edge environments, enabling decentralized routing, autonomous node management, and dynamic topology support
• Design self-forming and self-healing L2/L3 mesh topologies to support high-availability and mission-critical communication networks
• Develop and integrate control-plane architectures capable of managing mesh connectivity across space, airborne, and terrestrial nodes
• Lead the design of software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) architectures optimized for distributed mesh environments
• Employ protocols and technologies such as NETCONF/YANG, MPLS, and OSPF, to enable secure and automated routing across the mesh
• Simulate, test, and validate network performance and resilience under dynamic mission conditions using advanced network modeling tools and emulation platforms
• Lead engineers in implementing and evolving the mesh architecture designs throughout the system lifecycle
• Guide systems engineers, software developers, and mission operations teams to ensure seamless integration of networking functions within satellite ground and payload systems
• Contribute to CONOPS/OPSCON development, particularly with respect to real-time autonomous network management and mission assurance in mesh architectures
• Lead technical response efforts in proposals and new business pursuits related to resilient networking architectures

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• 12+ years of relevant experience in network architecture, with a strong emphasis on mesh networks, distributed systems, or adaptive communications
• Deep understanding of mesh network principles including node discovery, routing algorithms, label distribution protocols, and distributed consensus
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey products, deliverables, analyses, and/or issues clearly and confidently, and confidently recognize and adapt to different communication techniques
• Be a strategic thinker who demonstrates good judgment and decisiveness
• Be able to analyze a situation or problem and come up with effective solutions
• Can easily form relationships with executive leadership and encourage cross-functional team building
• The ability to thrive in a dynamic environment by handling multiple tasks according to deadline and budget limitations
• Be proactive in finding new and enhanced ways of doing things and sharing your knowledge with others

• Proficiency with automation tools and frameworks (e.g., NETCONF/YANG)
• Demonstrated ability to design and implement multi-domain network solutions that operate in constrained or contested environments
• Proven expertise in developing mission-critical communications systems in defense, aerospace, or satellite domains

• Be able to work in the office at least 3 or more days a week to foster collaboration with the team and stakeholders
• Be able to travel up to 10%
• This position directly performs under, supports, or is exposed to a U.S. government contract. To comply with the requirements of Iridium's U.S. government contracts, applicants for this position must be U.S. citizens.

This position primarily works in an office setting and is largely sedentary with the majority of the position working with a computer. The role typically requires the use of basic office equipment such as a phone, video, computer, keyboard, mouse, and printer.

Iridium is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.